In August, the 2012 London Olympic Games gave many Asians athletes an international platform to demonstrate their physical prowess. Last month, a different group of Asians were put on the spotlight. A new season of Fashion Week took over New York and I was there to soak it all in all while getting first-hand looks at the creativity of numerous Asian designers inside or outside the tents. Check out four Asian designers or brands that were at this season’s New York Fashion Week.

Gavin Rajah

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The South African-born designer debuted his Spring 2013 collection as one of the five designers featured at the Arise African Icons fashion collective, held in Lincoln Center. From sparkly pink shorts to the gold dresses, Gavin Rajah stayed true to his opulent designs as even his headgear were luxurious like the gold visors. [Image Courtesy: Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week[2]]

Son Jung Wan

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The front row might have been buzzing with Brooke Shields seated at the show in Lincoln Center, but once the models strutted down the runway, the true star was Son Jung Wan. The Korean designer kicked off her show with a yellow strapless dress and continued to offer a variety of looks – from cocktail dresses to low-flowing pieces – in chiffon, tulle, sheer fabric and metallic and in different hues such as teal and raspberry. The elegance of her pieces complemented the romanticism of Wan’s Spring collection. [Image Courtesy: Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week[4]]

Blanc de Chine

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The Chinese luxury brand Spring 2013 was a fusion of Eastern and Western elements, showcasing menswear and womenswear. While the men looked good in their relaxed pieces, it was the women who stood out as they were fitted in long shimmery gowns, sheath dresses or pantsuits. Blanc de Chine’s collection was subtle and simple with a hint of glamour. [Photo Courtesy: PR]

Gemma Kahng

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Gemma Kahng might just be the Comeback Kid of Fashion Week. The Korean designer made her debut in the fashion industry in the 90s but come 2000, her business was failing. Last year, she was even one of the designers featured on Joe Zee’s Sundance Channel program All on The Line , where he acts as a consultant for struggling designers. Today, Kahng happily presented her Spring collection at an intimate setting in Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall Building. Kahng drew inspirations from nature, specifically floral, butterfly and moths. She contrasted the delicacy of her appliques by showing a mostly all-black presentation with cut-offs or sheer dresses and jackets. [Image Courtesy: Women’s Wear Daily[7]]